I spent the weekend with the lens and I am very please. Not only because its a great bargain for 600mm but because its a great lens period. I suggest using a vest or a tripod because for long period of time, it's kinda heavy. When you do bird photography, you want to stop moving for extended period of time and let the magic happen.

Thomas, I've just spoken to Tamron UK this morning re availability. (Nikon fit) A few have already been sold in the UK, but they are still waiting for further supplies coming through from Tamron.

Tamron UK simply don't know when to expect the next shipment & it doesn't sound like i'll have one within the next week, but they asked who I'd pre-ordered with & took my number. Apparently demand has far exceeded their expectations!

As I said & he agreed (the issue has already been brought to Tamron's attention) it's the lack of information that's so frustrating & counter productive.

I'll just wait a couple more weeks, then if it doesn't arrive i'll cancel & look at the alternatives. I'm not prepared to miss what Summer we get, without a longer lens.

You Nikon guys think YOU'RE waiting!? I started this thread half-a-year ago, and my Sony mount version still likely won't be here until late August or September at the soonest. Bah humbug! I am still looking forward to it though...and honestly I was hoping to have the lens by April 1 to catch our Spring migration and mating season here in Florida - once that passed, there's really no pressing need to get the lens any sooner than about September now - our summer is long, hot, and humid, and no rare or visiting birds likely until late fall...my current lenses can cover summer duties.